PURPOSE: Trichiasis is an acquired condition in which the eyelashes are directed posteriorly, touching the surface of the cornea. It poses a complex therapeutic problem. Despite several therapeutic options (epilation, electroepilation, cryotherapy, laser ablation and standard surgical techniques), relapse is frequent. METHODS: A prospective, nonmasked study was conducted to determine the efficacy of high-frequency radioelectrosurgery for treatment of trichiasis. Thirty-four patients (fifty-four eyelid segments) were treated with this technique. After eight weeks, all patients were reviewed regarding the success rate, relapse and complications. RESULTS: Cure was achieved after only one session of treatment in twenty-two patients, and two or more sessions in the remaining twelve. No complications have been reported. CONCLUSIONS: We consider high-frequency radioelectrosurgery a simple, not expensive, effective and free of complications technique for the treatment of trichiasis.
PURPOSE: Trichiasis is an acquired condition in which the eyelashes are directed posteriorly, touching the surface of the cornea. It poses a complex therapeutic problem. Despite several therapeutic options (epilation, electroepilation, cryotherapy, laser ablation and standard surgical techniques), relapse is frequent. METHODS: A prospective, nonmasked study was conducted to determine the efficacy of high-frequency radioelectrosurgery for treatment of trichiasis. Thirty-four patients (fifty-four eyelid segments) were treated with this technique. After eight weeks, all patients were reviewed regarding the success rate, relapse and complications. RESULTS: Cure was achieved after only one session of treatment in twenty-two patients, and two or more sessions in the remaining twelve. No complications have been reported. CONCLUSIONS: We consider high-frequency radioelectrosurgery a simple, not expensive, effective and free of complications technique for the treatment of trichiasis.